Tuesday, 10 November 2015

Ahh.... good old summer holidays...... and not a snowman in sight! Alongside your usual term 4 sun safe lessons, end of year reports and beach trips, it's nice to delve into some Kiwi themed Christmas books... Here's a list of my favourite 'read alouds' - scroll to the bottom for a FREE download containing follow up printables for the following books!We really are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautifully illustrated and written New Zealand books - have a peek below for a quick review and some specific reader response sheets that match the books.... have I missed your favourite? Flick me an e-mail or leave a comment below!

A Pukeko in a Ponga Tree

By Kingi M. Ihaka

This classic (written in 1981) is still a favourite, and perfect for a sing-a-long! If you're teaching in a city school, this book is choc full of lots of interesting vocab which may require some further explanation (huhu grubs, puha etc.) This song is also great for adapting to create your own class version...

A Kiwi Jingle BellsBy Yvonne Morrison & Deborah Hinde

This modern version of Jingle Bells comes complete with a CD and catchy lyrics! Packed full of lots of Kiwiana references, it'll have you day dreaming of starting your beach holiday early...

Christmas in the BushBy Lindy Kelly

This book (suitable for slightly older children) follows the story of Josh who is off to spend Christmas with his Dad in the country. It gently touches on the topic of split families, and also the idea of creating different traditions with different sides of your family. I also enjoyed the theme of Christmas as a time for creating new memories - not the big focus on commercial gift giving.

The 12 days of HolidaysBy Yvonne Morrison & Jenny Cooper

Parents and busy teachers will all sympathise with the frazzled Mum in this book, who is juggling her older child and baby in the lead up to Christmas! Older children will enjoy the exploits of the 'big kid', and younger ones will enjoy the unfolding chaos of a busy house hold through the detailed illustrations.

Grandma's Kiwi Christmas

By Helen McKinley & Craig Smith

Fans of Grandma's other adventures (including 'Grandma joins the All Blacks' & 'Grandma's week off') will enjoy following her as she bustles around town preparing for Christmas with her jar of infamous marmalade....

This 46 page booklet pack is a great way to support your classroom discussions about what makes Christmas time special in NZ (no snowmen and wintery Christmas trees in this book!) The booklet contains a wide range of activities - perfect for independent work or as an early finishers activity pack – mix and match the pages to suit the ability levels in your class. Ngā mihi o te Kirihimete me te Tau Hou! ~ Season’s greetings for Christmas and the New year!Grubbily yours,